There’s no denying Michelle Smith is well-versed in the language of chic (she was the first American to intern at Hermès in Paris, after graduating from New York’s Fashion Institute). I have always adored her little dresses and recently started craving her bags, but I have never obsessed over anything Milly as much as the Sienna belted cape!

Capes, often too voluminous or shapeless, can easily dwarf small girls; building a belt into it is the best way for us (and yes, Michelle is quite petite herself, so she knows) to wear this look with flattering ease. Unexpected yellow trim and lining on deep, dark navy gives it depth and lets you show off the cinched waist; it drapes over the shoulders with glamorous nonchalance, and brass buttons pop and punctuate. Actually, I love the whole retro-inspired look, worthy of Jackie O. The yellow tweed A-line skirt complements the double-faced wool, and it has pockets to boot! By far the chicest, most sophisticated I’ve seen, file the Sienna under Snobbiest Cape of the Season. At Milly for $595.

Pair with: Chic is the word. Add The Row’s impeccably minimal, toffee-colored, calfskin doctor bag, and not only will you define it, you’ll bring major luxury to the mix. The Row Doctor Bag, $4,750.